4 Sep 2012

Maitua banned for two NRL trials

4:30 pm on 4 September 2012

Reni Maitua will miss Parramatta's opening two National Rugby League trial matches in 2013 after pleading guilty to a high tackle charge.

Maitua floored St George Illawarra back-rower Josh Miller with a swinging arm in the opening minute of the Eels' season finale on Sunday night.

Miller took no further part in the game, though Maitua's suspension equates to little more than a slap on the wrist given he can serve the ban during the pre-season and is free to play in next year's opening round.

Cronulla centre Ben Pomeroy will front the NRL judiciary on Wednesday night in a bid to beat a dangerous contact charge and save his finals campaign.

Pomeroy's charge for a shoulder charge that hit North Queensland's Johnathan Thurston on the chin was referred to the judiciary without grading.